News
CDCB delivers the latest news on genetic improvement, research and U.S. evaluations through its monthly newsletter, dairy media, and events.
August 2025 Evaluation Changes: What’s New?
July 10, 2025
The August 2025 triannual genetic evaluations include the introduction of a new trait for Holsteins, the implementation of the five-year base change for calving traits, and updates to two other traits.
Introducing Net Merit 2025
January 31, 2025
The Lifetime Net Merit (NM$) index by CDCB ranks dairy animals based on their combined genetic merit for economically important traits. The 2025 NM$ update revises some methods to estimate trait values and many income and cost variables, such as milk prices, feed requirements, and reproductive options. The 2025 revision does not include genetic evaluations for any new traits.
10M Animal Genotypes in National Cooperator Database
December 21, 2024
A remarkable milestone – 10 million animal genotypes in the National Cooperator Database – was recorded on December 14 as 2024 was winding down.
CDCB Invests in Interns as Next Gen Scientists
June 6, 2024
For the eighth year, CDCB is providing internships for the next generation of animal scientists. Welcome Agustin Chasco, Gabriella Dodd and Gaurav Dutta, who will conduct research with scientists from CDCB and USDA AGIL during the summer of 2024.
April 2024 Evaluation Changes: What’s New?
March 7, 2024
CDCB and USDA AGIL announce enhancements in the U.S. dairy genetic evaluations on April 2, 2024.
Seeking 2024 CDCB Intern Candidates
November 17, 2023
In summer 2024, CDCB will again offer internships to dairy or animal science students during their junior, senior, or graduate study program.
Recumbency in Holstein Calves
April 3, 2023
Researchers at Penn State University have been collaborating with colleagues at USDA’s Agricultural Research Service to study a new genetic defect in Holstein cattle. This defect is characterized by otherwise healthy animals that are unable to stand. This condition, currently called calf recumbency, has proven to be more complex than other known genetic defects.
April 2023 Evaluation Changes: What’s New?
March 7, 2023
The Council on Dairy Cattle Breeding and USDA Animal Genomics Improvement Laboratory are implementing a series of changes with the triannual U.S. evaluations on April 4, 2023.
CDCB Connection
A monthly newsletter, details genetic evaluation updates and industry news.
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